Extraction and characterization of alkali-treated red coconut empty fruit bunch fiber

This article discusses the extraction and characterization of new natural fiber extracted from red coconut empty fruit bunch. The physicochemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of alkali-treated red coconut empty fruit bunch fibers (ARCEFBFs) were reported and compared with other natural fibers for the first time. Cellulose content (65.02 wt%), wax (0.32 wt%), density (1.421 g/cc), and tensile strength (1299.49 MPa) were identified in ARCEFBFs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed that ARCEFBFs are rich in cellulose content with crystallinity index of 53.6%. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that these fibers are thermally stable until 270.48°C.